Hideyoshi's Grand Ambition

Unified leader Toyotomi Hideyoshi orders construction of Japan's most formidable fortress on this strategic site, beginning in 1583.

The Octopus Stone

Locate the Ote-mon gate and marvel at the impossible scale of the granite Megastones used in the Tokugawa reconstruction walls.

The Summer Siege of 1615

The original Toyotomi castle burned to the ground during this decisive battle, ending the clan and cementing Tokugawa rule.

View from the Concrete Top

Take the elevator up the reconstructed 1931 keep; the park view is great, even if the history isn't original.